Julian Alvarez has resumed training at Atletico Madrid, providing a fresh twist in the ongoing transfer saga linking the striker with Arsenal.
The 26-year-old missed Atletico's 3-1 win over Sevilla on Saturday due to a stomach bug, having stayed away from the first team ahead of the LaLiga clash. The Argentina international was booed by his own fans during a draw with Villarreal last weekend, before walking straight down the tunnel after the match in a pre-agreed decision with the club.
Training return and deadline
Alvarez trained alone at the club's facilities and is expected to rejoin the group on Sunday, according to Atletico sporting director Matheu Alemany.
"He trained yesterday, and we hope he recovers quickly and is ready for the upcoming La Liga match," Alemany said.
Atletico are next in action on September 5 against Athletic Club. It has been previously reported that Alvarez has been handed a deadline of Sunday to decide whether he wants to stay or join Arsenal, with a move to Barcelona ruled out.
Arsenal interest and player's stance
Standard Sport has reported that Arsenal continue to work on a deal for Alvarez in the background, with Atletico potentially open to selling to the Gunners for the right price.
However, speaking on Saturday morning, The Athletic's David Ornstein confirmed Alvarez has told Mikel Arteta that he does not want to return to England.
"At the time of reporting, there is a low chance that Julian Alvarez comes to Arsenal," Ornstein told TNT Sports. "Atletico Madrid would do a deal with Arsenal. Arsenal are prepared to reach a club-to-club agreement, but they would want the player to want to join them."
"Alvarez has shown no indication of wanting to join at this point. He's spoken to Mikel Arteta and said that he doesn't want to come.
"That could change, these situations are always movable, so I don't want to say it won't happen, but right now, it's not developing."
